Three GB Judoka Set for 2025 Gold Coast Oceania Open
October 31, 2025
Three GB fighters will take to the tatami this weekend at the 2025 Gold Coast Oceania Open, held from 1–2 November.
Eric Ham (Ryecroft JC) will make his long-awaited return to competition after almost two years away from the sport. Following a horrific accident in 2023 that left doctors unsure whether he would ever compete again, Ham will proudly represent Great Britain once again on Saturday in the -73kg category.
His last outing came at the 2023 European Championships in Kosovo, and this weekend marks an important milestone in his comeback, an opportunity to simply get back on the mat, regardless of results.
Ollie Barratt (Dragons Academy) will compete in the -100kg category, aiming to continue the strong form he has shown throughout 2025.
This year, Barratt has secured a bronze medal at the Warsaw European Open, finished 5th at the Dushanbe Grand Slam, and placed 7th at the Tallinn European Open — a consistent run on the international stage.
Rounding out the team, Rachael Hawkes in the -70kg division will look to build on her impressive recent performances. Hawkes has claimed two medals from just three events, including gold at the Port Louis African Open and bronze at the Lima Pan American Open.
